Charcoal is made by burning wood and has many uses. As a drawing material, it produces rich black lines that can be smudged to create a wide range of tonal effects. Charcoal comes in three main forms, as compressed, willow, and pencil, each with its own distinct qualities.
Charcoal has been used for over 30,000 years, making it one of the oldest drawing materials. Marks on ancient cave walls reveal how early humans saw the world, giving us a fascinating glimpse into life long ago.
Explore the resources below to begin your exploration of charcoal.
